It's my space, but you're welcome to stay.

I’ve known since the instant I started this blog how unique connections can develop.

I mean, how else could you explain my recent happiness for a woman I’ve never met in the midwest who just announced she’s pregnant. And, she’s an Indians fan. So how could I possibly really like her? But, I do. And I’m very happy for her.

How else can I explain my recent happiness for a blogger/facebook friend who recently got engaged. Because I haven’t read much, I actually don’t know if she still blogs, but we’re friends on the ‘book, so I know about it that way. She was a regular commenter here, as I was on her blog. Things change. I get that. But I can still be happy for her through the connection here.

How else can I explain my secret blog crush on someone down south? She doesn’t blog anymore either, but the rumor is she might be back soon. But, we’re ‘book friends, too. And, did I mention she has amazing taste in music and in baseball teams. She’s funny, witty and I don’t know if we could ever carry a conversation in real time, but that’s fine. We’ve got something in common here and it works — because of blogging.

How else can you explain someone sending homemade baked goods to your office — other than blogging? Actually, two people have done this.

How else can you explain getting to know people you work with on an even deeper level — sometimes without even talking about it. You just come here and share — and that leads to a deeper understanding of some friends. And, honestly, I like that.

I write a lot about stuff that has happened to me — and death is always a part of that. First, a lot about my dad and now my brother.

And it was through writing about Tim that two more great connections just happened.

First, a woman that I deal with through work sent me a personal email about shared experiences. I knew she lost her husband a few years ago, but didn’t know much more than that. How much do you bring up over business?

Well, she became a friend on the ‘book and therefore discovered my blog (which was fine). She read some of the stuff I wrote about Tim and my desire to try and do more with my nephew. She then wrote me a great email that started with something like, “I hope this is OK to write….” and then she shared some things that she’s dealt with since the loss of her husband that helped me by giving me a different perspective — not just of what can help me, but also, unbeknownst to her, of what things my sister-in-law is no doubt going through

So through work, that connection was established, and through the blog, it became even greater.

If you’ve read me, you know how I got started — thanks to Molly. Well, after having lunch with Molly the other day, she wrote about our experience and suggested that her readers come visit me.

Well, one reader did — and she sent me an email last night that I’ve read about 10 times already.

Turns out, eight years ago, she lost her brother due to a random act of violence. She wrote to me about she’s dealt with that a little bit and how she’s been able to have a stronger relationship with her older brother — much like I hope happens with me and Tom. It’s about making sure opportunities aren’t lost.

This person didn’t have to email me. But I’m glad she did. I wrote her back and said, hey, maybe we can share stuff from time to time. Having someone to talk to that understands is a great thing.

And what’s unique about our situations — anger. For her, at someone — a real person. For me, which is an entire other element of my frustration — God. Tim didn’t do this to himself. Nobody did it to him. So why was he taken? Yeah, I know. But it’s what I think — and more importantly — what I feel. And if there’s one thing I’ve actually accepted recently, you can’t change feelings — you can only respect them.

So, again, a link from one blog to another brought this person in my life. Whether she stays, I don’t know. But regardless of that, it was nice to connect with someone in a similar situation that can truly relate.

Not that others can’t, but, well, you can’t — not unless you’ve gone through this. And trust me, I’m not not wishing this on anyone.

So, to that person, thank you for following Molly’s link, thanks for reading and — more importantly — thanks for writing.

And, to all of my blogging friends, regular readers and casual visitors — you all have a connection here somehow. It’s what brought you here. And it’s what keeps you coming back.

…but here it is three years later and I’m still going and going and, well, going.

Yup, this blog is three years old.

Not only that, this is my 300th post.

I’m actually surprised — I wouldn’t have figured that I’d average a post every three days or so. Despite my recent hiatus, I guess it does go to show that (at one point) I was writing fairly regularly (and I’m trying to build back up to that pace — honest).

Ok, so when I said this interview thing was addicting, I wasn’t kidding.

Today’s questions come from Molly. It’s only fair, really, that she interview me. Afterall, I interviewed her (for real) twice. I knew she’d have some good questions.

How good? See for yourself.

1. When did you know Renee was the woman you were going to marry?

Well, I don’t know if this is the real answer or not. But, Renee and I knew each other for five years before we started dating. During that time, I had thought about asking her out, but never got up the nerve. Then, a friend of mine asked her out. They dated regularly — more than a year if I remember correctly. Once they started going out, I remember thinking, “Geez, why did I let that happen?” Thankfully for me, the relationship didn’t last.

2.What is the strangest dream you can remember?

Honestly, I can’t even remember the last time I could remember a dream.

3. If you had to give up chocolate or beer for the rest of your life, which would it be?

Now, don’t get me wrong, I love a good beer. But, sorry, brewski, you don’t stand a chance against chocolate!

4. If you could be a character in any television show, who would you be and why?

Hmmm. Norm from Cheers? Josh from The West Wing? Phil the host from Amazing Race? Marshall in Alias? Jack from Three’s Company? How do I pick? MacGyver?

I think I might go with MacGyver. I mean, I can’t fix/build anything and he could build anything with three toothpicks, a spool of thread and a plastic cup.

Then again, so could the Professor from Gilligan’s Island…and he was stuck on a remote island with Ginger and Mary Anne.

Yeah, I’m picking the Professor!

5. Bon Jovi invites you on the stage to sing one song with him. Which song do you choose?

Well, first of all, how did I get front row seats? Am I like Courteney Cox being pulled on stage by the Boss? And, my goodness, how do you expect me to sing? Heck, I’m not even sure I could stand — let alone talk, let alone sing! I mean, he picked me?!

The song I would pick? Dead or Alive. Why? Well, I would never, ever, ever steal his thunder. I mean, especially if he asked me on stage. Wouldn’t it be rude for me to take the spotlight? Or to even sing a song as his, dare I say it, equal?

Dead or Alive is perfect…I’ll take the Sambora parts — small, but so important.

I mean, come on, you know what I’m talking about. When Jon sings “Wanted….” and Richie responds with “Wanted….”. Does it get any better than that? Um, no. That’s the part I want. Integral to the song — but not taking away from the man.

God, how pathetic am I?

Well, what can I say, she hit a soft spot. 🙂

Any more questions out there for me? Want any questions from me? Let me know.

For some of the bloggers I work with, we can’t stop talking about this thing. It’s fun to come up with great questions, and it’s just as fun to answer them.

So, without further delay, here come five questions for me from my friend and colleague Carrie.

1. We both have experienced the loss of family all too early. They have missed out on many important things in our lives that we wish they could have been here for. I know that I have a question I would have liked to ask my Dad both before he died and especially now. So this is a two parter: If you could have asked your Dad one question before he died or after, what would it have been? And what about Tim?

Wow, nothing like coming out with guns blazing! This is an emotional question, but one I’ve actually thought about — particularly with my Dad, so we’ll start there. Toward the end, Dad was under hospice care. He was coming to grips with the situation quickly, and apparently had something on his mind that he wanted to do. I don’t remember how this came up, but apparently Dad was getting ready to write each of us a letter. This about floored me when I heard it. Still gives me the chills a bit now when I think about it. We weren’t then (and aren’t now) an affectionate family. That’s OK. It’s just who we are. But if my Dad was going to do that, it would be his way of expressing his feelings to us.

So, that said, the question is, “Dad, what were you going to write in my letter?”

For Tim, the timing of everything was just off. Completely unexpected. Complete shock. No other way to describe it. Once he was at the hospital, someone was there all the time, and, for much of the time, we were all there. I remember standing next to his bed, playing my iPod so he could ‘hear’ some of his favorite music. Why? Why not. We sat in the hallway. We sat in the waiting room. We sat by his bed. All the while, he was unconscious.

So, that said, the question is, “Tim, did you know we were there? Could you feel us?”

2. If Heaven exists, when you get to the Pearly Gates, what do you hope God says to you?

Well, first of all, I believe Heaven does exist. And, I hope to God that I am going there. In terms of what’s he going to say to me, hmmm. Probably something along the lines of, “Michael. Welcome home. You weren’t perfect, but nobody is. But given the cards you were dealt, you played a pretty good hand. Now, go over there, see your Dad, your brother and just relax.”

3. If you could have dinner with any three people dead or alive (but not including family), who would it be and why?

I love this question! I’ve actually blogged about it before. It was one of my first entries, and you can find it here. I actually like one of the tables I listed in that blog. Imagine dining with JFK, RFK and Marilyn Monroe. Think there’d be much conversation?

Then I wonder, OK, what about dinner with Letterman, Leno and Carson? Or, how about Bono, Stipe and Elton John? Or, maybe Tom Brady, Big Papi and Paul Pierce. Or what about

So many different options. So many different ways to go with it.

4. If you could trade places with one person for a day, who would it be and why?

Two part answer coming here. Fun and serious.

First, the fun. Jon Bon Jovi. In a heartbeat. Why? Well, OK, he’s my man crush. I’m not afraid of that. But, more importantly, i want to stand on stage in a stadium and have 75,000 people in the palm of my hand. I want to be a rockstar for 24 hours. And I can’t think of a better one to be than my man JBJ. Mmm!

Now, the serious. I would trade places with my son, Aidan. I want to know what he sees. How he sees it. Anything that can get me even closer to him. And to understand him as best as I can.

5. You’re the “Word Guy,” so here is a multi-part quick answer question:

a) What is your favorite curse word?
Without a doubt, it’s the f-bomb. And, lately, I’m dropping it a lot.

b) What is your favorite word?
Honestly, I don’t think I have one.

c) What is your least favorite word?
I’m going with diarrhea. Why? Because I can never spell it without looking it up. And, if you’re using the word, chances are you’ve probably got it (and that’s not good). Finally, it just doesn’t have a flow to it. I don’t know. Mostly because, well, I just don’t like it — in all areas.

We know bad things happen in threes, but I’m here to prove good things can happen in threes, too.

Here goes:

Rules1. Put your iPod/iTunes on Shuffle.
2. For each question, press the next button for your answer
3. You must write that song name down, no matter how silly it sounds.
4. Tag three people to complete this.

If someone says, “Is this OK?”, you say:Only the Lonely, The Motels

What would best describe your personality?Freewill, Rush

What do you like in a girl/guy?Take a Chance on Me, Abba

What is your life’s purpose?Thank God I’m a Country Boy, John Denver

What is your motto?You Rock My World, Michael Jackson

What do your friends think of you?Better Be Good to Me, Tina Turner

What do you think about very often?Under Pressure, Boyz II Men

What is 2+2?Crush, Gavin DeGraw

What do you think of your best friend?Angel, Sarah McLachlan

What do you think of the person you like?Roll to Me, Del Amitri

What is your life story?God Must Hate Me, Simple Plan

What do you want to be when you group up?Sexy, Black Eyed Peas

What do you think when you see the person you like?Big Time, Peter Gabriel

What do your parents think of you?Dizzy, Goo Goo Dolls

What will they play at your funeral?Losing My Religion, REM

What is your biggest secret?One Wild Night, Bon Jovi

What do you think of your friends?The Wonderful Thing About Tiggers, Disney

What’s the worst thing that could happen?High School Never Ends, Bowling for Soup

How will you die?I’ll Never Let You Go, Steelheart

What is one thing you regret?Into the Great Wide Open, Tom Petty & Heartbreakers

What makes you laugh?I Got That Boom Boom, Britney Spears

What makes you cry?The Killer Inside, Better than Ezra

Does anyone like you?All-American Girl, Train

If you could go back in time what would you change?It’s Gonna Be Me, N’Sync

What hurts right now?Patience, Guns ‘n Roses

Wow, some pretty interesting stuff when totally random.

I’m supposed to tag three people. Why limit it to three?! Anyone who wants to do this, feel free. Just let me know so I can check out your version of this, too!

I’ve been tagged a bunch of times to do different things here at I Got Nothin’. However, I never seem to end up doing them (sorry, taggers).

In this case, I’m self tagged, so to speak.I saw this Interview concept at Sara’s place. I couldn’t resist requesting an interview – mostly because I know Sara would ask five great questions. And also because if any of you ask me to interview you, I get to come up with five great questions.Why? Because here are the rules:
1. If you want to participate, leave me a comment saying, “Interview me.”2. I will respond by emailing you five questions. I get to pick the questions.3. You will update your blog with the answers to the questions.4. You will include this explanation and an offer to interview someone else in the same post.5. When others comment asking to be interviewed, you will ask them five questions.

And, here are the five questions Sara asked me (along, of course, with my answers). And, who knows, it wouldn’t surprise me if you like the questions better than the answers.

1. Why did you start a blog?To bring out my inner 25 year old female. You see, Molly used to work for me. And she was a blogger. And we’d talk about it from time to time with me always thinking, ‘well, maybe I should try that’ without having the guts to throw my name in the ring. Then, one day, she said, ‘why don’tyou start one?’ Was it that easy? Apparently it was.
Then, in the process, I gained a pretty heavy readership of 25-year-old females. And then I was reading their stuff, too. Hence, the first line of this answer. I used to say, I’m nothing but a 25-year-old female trapped in the body of a 39-year-old male!Regardless of age, gender or what not, the most surprising thing to me about this blogging thing is the establishment of real friendships with real people. It’s sort of incredible really.

2. What was your dream job when you were 11 and why did or didn’t you pursue it?Are you kidding? What 11-year-old doesn’t want to be the PR director of a maritime museum? Find me one! Um, well, OK…..truth be told, I didn’t pursue my dream job of starting at first base for the Red Sox primarily because I could never hit a curve ball at age 11 or even higher.

3. What is one lesson that you would want your kids to learn the easy way?That death sucks. And it affects everyone. I don’t know how they can learn this the easy way. But I’ve learned it the hard way – twice. And it’s the last thing I want them to experience. And, especially since I don’t want them to lose their father because, well, that would be me.

4. In the movie of your life, what would the soundtrack be (it can be one album or a compilation of songs)
Augustana ~ BostonBarenaked Ladies ~ What A Good BoyBilly Joel ~ New York State of MindBlessed Union of Souls ~ She Likes Me for MeBon Jovi ~ Story of My LifeBowling for Soup ~ 1985The Divinyls ~ I Touch Myself (and you don’t?!)Howard Jones ~ Life In One DayJames Taylor ~ You’ve Got a FriendPat Benatar ~ All Fired UpStyx ~ The Best of TimesYouth Group ~ Forever Young

5. What do your readers know about you that your friends or family may not?When I first read this, I thought it was the question to end all questions, but then I realized, wait, most of my family and friends actually reads here. (And then I realized that the time I put in to thinking about 3 and 4 made them the questions to end all questions.) Maybe I should answer a question with a question and ask them what they’ve learned about me here that they didn’t already know? Is that cheating? Did I just completely avoid this, or was my move cool and smart? I’m going with the latter.

Erin works for me, which is enough of a chore for anyone. She’s a native California girl that now calls Connecticut home. She’s survived working for me for a year, so she’s got something going for her. She’s also sharp and witty — which you’ll discover when you read her blog here.

Of course, you’ll also find her on my blogroll as Catfood & Cabernet. Curiously enough, you won’t find me on her blogroll — at least not as of now. Hmmm.

Regardless, Happy Birthday again, Erin!

Sara used to work with me. She was my work wife. We didn’t get divorced, just separated, I suppose. She took a better job for better money in a better place. And one more better? Our friendship has probably gotten even better since. She shyed away from this blogging thing for the longest time. But now that she’s in, there’s no stopping her. She’s got a growing readership that you should be a part of if you aren’t already.

You can find her and her very witty blog here. She’s also on my blogroll (and I’m on hers!) as If I Had to Pick Five.